The real estate sale transaction was valued at 900,000,000 euros.
Recently, Belgian police conducted a series of searches in the European Commission. According to several European media outlets, this concerns an investigation into the circumstances of the sale of state real estate in favor of the Belgian fund SFPIM.
The investigation is coordinated by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). This body is responsible for combating crimes affecting the financial interests of the EU. Prosecutor's office representatives confirmed that investigative actions were taking place. However, they refused to disclose details in order not to influence the course of the investigation.
According to sources, the investigation is examining possible violations in the transaction. It was concluded in 2024 between the European Commission and the Belgian state investment fund SFPIM. At that time, the European Commission sold 23 buildings with a total value of approximately 900 million euros.
According to the Commission itself, the sale was part of a plan to reduce office space by 25%.
It was also necessary for the renovation of the European Quarter. This area of Brussels houses many EU institutions. A representative of the European Commission stated that the organization "adheres to the principles of transparency and openness." It is cooperating with the Belgian authorities and the EPPO.
He emphasized that, according to internal data: "...all actions regarding the sale of real estate were carried out in accordance with approved procedures and protocols."
The Commission is confident that the process was conducted correctly and legally. Despite this, investigators continue to collect evidence, examining financial documents and contracts related to the sale.
EPPO — the European Public Prosecutor's Office. This is an independent EU body established to combat corruption and financial crimes that harm the Union's budget. Its powers include conducting investigations and initiating criminal cases in member states.
The SFPIM fund — Société Fédérale de Participations et d’Investissement. This is a Belgian state structure that manages state assets and participates in large investment projects. Thus, the transaction between the European Commission and SFPIM is of significant interest both economically and politically.
Experts believe that the investigation may last several months.
If violations are identified, the prosecutor's office has the right to initiate a criminal case. After all, this concerns the financial interests of the European Union. On the other hand, the European Commission insists that the transaction was conducted transparently and within the framework of the law. Meanwhile, the public is awaiting the official results of the EPPO investigation.
Leave a comment